Read 2 Sam. 7:18-19,24-29, Ps. 132:1-5,11-14, Mark 4:21-25
“And he said to them: Is a lamp brought in to be put under a bushel, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For there is nothing hid, except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret, except to come to light.” (Mark 4:21-22)
David wanted to build a befitting Temple for God. He had all the resources to do so. Nathan delivered to him a message from God saying: “You are not the one to build me a house.” David did not protest, he did not go out stubbornly to begin the construction work. He simply went down on his knees and prayed to God. It takes great humility, first to recognize God’s voice in His prophets and to obey such.
In 1st Samuel 13, Saul waited seven days for Samuel to come to Gilgal to offer the sacrifice but Samuel was still on his way. Saul noticed that some of his soldiers were leaving gradually and in annoyance, Saul, feeling that he could take the place of Samuel went ahead to offer the burnt offerings. The moment he finished doing this, Samuel showed up. This was the beginning of Saul’s woes.
If you were in David’s shoes, would you obey the words of Nathan? How much value do we place on instructions we receive from God’s ministers? How do we react to the teachings of the church that are contrary to our personal opinions such as abortion, invitro-fertilization, euthanasia, and so on?
In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “Is a lamp put under a bushel or under a bed? For there is nothing hid, except to be made manifest, nothing secret except to come to light.” Just as light can never be hidden, Jesus wants us to know that we can never hide. There is nothing we do secretly that would not eventually come to the light, there is nothing hidden that would not be known. It is only a matter of time. It is better to do what is right than to try to cover your tracks later on.
Jesus says: “to whom much is given will much be expected.” God expects more from us than the rest of the world. God expects us to shine like bright stars in a world so full of darkness. God wants you to make a difference. He wants you to lead the way, to show good examples, to inspire even those who have sold their souls to the devil.
In Romans 12:2, St. Paul tells us not to be conformed to this world. James warns us: “Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God?” (James 4:4). St. John adds: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him.” (1 John 2:15)
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, create in me a pure heart; let my life reflect your light. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Thursday of week 3 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 2 Sam. 7:18-19,24-29, Ps. 132:1-5,11-14, Mark 4:21-25).